President's Message

Mark Twain didn’t actually say “The reports of my death are greatly exaggerated” but the sentiment speaks eloquently to the end of 2021 but the continuing life of the COVID pandemic.
 
Amid rumors of Twain’s illness or potential death, the New York Journal contacted Twain to inquire whether the rumors were true. Mark Twain responded, “I can understand perfectly how the report of my illness got about, I have even heard on good authority that I was dead. James Ross Clemens, a cousin of mine, was seriously ill two or three weeks ago in London, but is well now. The report of my illness grew out of his illness. The report of my death was an exaggeration.”
 
While the reports of independence from COVID-19 appear to have proved a similar exaggeration, the fact is that this virus is still alive and will remain with us for some time.
 
Despite this sobering reality, I remain hopeful and even optimistic for 2022 and beyond. There are good reasons to celebrate the hope and opportunities that surround us in the midst of chaos and uncertainty.
 
At yesterday’s League Board meeting, League staff presented sustained growth — across all our functional areas — throughout one of the most challenging periods in recent history.

1. Our advocacy program will expand with new investments that will yield greater impact and allow us the opportunity to engage members more deeply in the process;

2. The Foundation had a record raffle and is well on its way to getting at least one FiCEP certified employee at every member-credit union; and

3. The League Services Corporation has both expanded its internal compliance resources and delivered more valuable partnerships and services for credit unions.

Your League may be smaller than some others, but it is increasingly seen as a leader among leagues. Thanks to you, we are a thriving independent league within a strong credit union system – and we cannot wait to deliver even greater value for our credit unions in 2022.

Thank you for your continued support and our collective purpose-driven mission. It is because of you that I have hope. May you and your loved ones have a safe and happy holiday season.

Peace to you and yours,
Bruce